The Most Common Mistakes When Choosing a Solar Installer in Nova Scotia (and How to Avoid Them)

Author: Mariela Guanchez

 

Nova Scotia’s solar scene is booming—everywhere you turn, someone’s putting panels on their roof or considering commercial solar power installations in Halifax. But guess what? Not all solar installers in Nova Scotia are created equal. Over the years, I’ve seen well-intentioned folks end up with mismatched systems, half-done rebate paperwork, or even subpar equipment because they didn’t know what to look for. Let’s walk through the biggest mistakes homeowners (and business owners) make when picking a solar installer, and how you can steer clear of those woes.

 

1) Falling for the Cheapest Bid

I get it: solar can be pricey, so it’s tempting to jump at the lowest quote. But remember, you’re installing a system meant to last 25+ years. If an installer slashes costs by using questionable panels or skipping key steps like structural checks, you’ll pay the price later—maybe literally, if your roof leaks or your output drops prematurely.

• How to Avoid It: Look beyond the price. Check the brand of panels and inverters, the warranty terms, and whether the installer includes post-installation service. A slightly higher quote might cover essential extras (like thorough roof sealing or extended warranties) that a cheaper bid omits.

 

2) Ignoring Certification Requirements

Many Nova Scotia incentives hinge on using a certified, approved installer. If you bypass that in favor of, say, a general contractor who’s never specialized in solar, you might lose out on thousands in rebates. Or, you might find that your system doesn’t pass the final inspection, causing grid-connection delays.

• How to Avoid It: Always ask for the installer’s certifications upfront. Efficiency Nova Scotia, for instance, maintains a list of recognized companies. If you’re also exploring federal incentives, confirm they meet any federal standards too.

 

3) Overlooking Halifax-Specific Needs (Especially Commercial)

In Halifax, building codes, aesthetic guidelines (in certain heritage districts), and zoning rules can be more nuanced. Also, commercial solar power installations in Halifax often require unique electrical configurations (like 3-phase power) that not every residential-focused installer handles daily.

• How to Avoid It: If your project is large-scale or commercial, specifically ask your installer for references from similar projects. If they look confused by the mention of 3-phase power or commercial net metering policies, that’s a red flag.

 

4) Neglecting to Read Customer Reviews

It’s easy to be dazzled by a slick website or a friendly sales pitch. But do they follow through on deadlines? Are their post-installation checkups reliable? Online reviews (or direct references) can paint an unfiltered picture.

• How to Avoid It: Google the company name plus “reviews.” Check local Facebook groups or community forums where neighbors share experiences. If you see repeated mentions of missed deadlines or poor communication, that’s your cue to dig deeper or look elsewhere.

5) Skipping the Detailed Contract

I’ve heard horror stories: “They said it would cost $20k, but then they invoiced me $25k!” or “I assumed net metering paperwork was included, but apparently not.” Don’t rely on vague verbal assurances.

• How to Avoid It: Ensure your contract spells out everything: panel brand, inverter specs, timeline, site repairs if needed, net metering help, and how unforeseen issues are handled. If the contract is bare-bones, ask them to revise it or walk away.

6) Forgetting Maintenance & Warranty Plans

Solar systems typically run smoothly, but things can go wrong. If your inverter fails three years in and the installer never spelled out warranty coverage or labor fees, you’re in for a nasty surprise.

• How to Avoid It: Ask about each component’s warranty period: panels are often 25 years for performance, inverters might be 10–15 years. Also, check if the installer themselves offers a separate workmanship warranty (like leak-proof roofing coverage).

 

 

Choosing the right solar installers in Nova Scotia can be the difference between a smooth, satisfying project or a nightmare of hidden costs and missed rebate opportunities. By avoiding the common mistakes—cheap bids with zero aftercare, ignoring certifications, or skipping contract details—you’ll set yourself up for decades of clean energy and significantly reduced power bills.

If you’re in the market for a top-tier team—whether it’s for your cozy home or commercial solar power installations in Halifax—contact Maritime Solar. We’re happy to show you references, certifications, and how we handle everything from roofing checks to final net metering. Let’s make solar stress-free, so you can enjoy every ray of sunshine.